CERC Initiates Measures for Safe, Secure Power System Operation

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has taken a significant step toward ensuring the stability and reliability of India’s power system by initiating Suo-Motu proceedings recently.

The petition addresses the challenges posed by seasonal variations in electricity demand, which typically lead to sharp surges in power consumption during critical periods.

In response to these challenges, the CERC aims to implement a robust set of measures that ensure a seamless and uninterrupted electricity supply during these high-demand phases. 

In its directive, the CERC has mandated that key agencies such as the State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs), Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs), and the National Load Despatch Centre (NLDC) play an active role in planning and operational decision-making during these peak periods. These centres are responsible for ensuring real-time monitoring and operational efficiency across the power grid, especially during times of heightened electricity demand.

By requiring these entities to submit timely operational data, the CERC ensures that power generation and distribution entities can preemptively address any potential issues. The emphasis on accurate and real-time data collection is a critical element of maintaining grid stability and ensuring a steady flow of electricity during these vulnerable periods.

The CERC’s petition also addresses the need for a proactive approach to managing the risks posed by sudden spikes in electricity demand. The regulatory framework under this petition demands that SLDCs collaborate closely with RLDCs and NLDC to assess and manage the power system’s total transfer capability (TTC) and available transfer capacity (ATC).

These studies will ensure that sufficient generation reserves are available to handle demand surges and that any potential shortfalls are mitigated through planned interventions. Additionally, the petition outlines the importance of evaluating system protection schemes, including generation run-back, load-rejection schemes, and islanding mechanisms. These schemes are designed to automatically isolate areas of the grid at risk of failure, thus protecting the grid from major outages.

Furthermore, the CERC's order stipulates the need for regular operational studies, including day-ahead, weekly, monthly, and yearly assessments of the grid’s transfer capacity, as well as planned outage assessments and special scenario evaluations. This ongoing study process will allow the agencies involved to monitor and adapt to evolving grid conditions, ensuring that both short-term and long-term operational strategies are in place.

The CERC has also stressed the importance of evaluating the potential impact of new grid elements, which are set to be commissioned in the upcoming months, and their effect on the state and inter-state transfer capabilities. These proactive studies are designed to provide insights that help in adjusting operational plans in real time and ensuring system stability, even as renewable energy sources become a more significant part of the grid. In conclusion, the CERC’s petition represents a major step toward improving the reliability of India’s electricity grid during critical periods of high demand.

By ensuring coordinated planning between SLDCs, RLDCs, and NLDC the CERC aims to mitigate the risks associated with grid instability and supply disruptions. As renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, continue to grow in prominence, this approach will be essential in managing the inherent variability of these sources.

The careful assessment of transfer capabilities, the implementation of system protection schemes, and the continuous monitoring of grid conditions are vital measures in safeguarding India’s energy security and supporting its ambitious renewable energy goals.